End of Life Sessions to me

End-of-Life Sessions for Dogs

Recently, a seasoned photographer advised me to approach my End-of-Life Sessions the same as any other—no discounts, no free images, and to raise my overall prices. They emphasized that if I want to make a sustainable full-time living from photography, this mindset is essential. While I understand the business logic, my experience with these sessions has taught me something different.

End-of-Life Sessions hold a deeply personal meaning for me. These aren’t just photo shoots; they’re moments of connection and compassion. If I had treated these sessions strictly as regular ones, I would have missed out on meeting some incredible people and their beloved dogs—like Chief and his family.

Chief’s owners drove five hours for our session because they saw something in my work that made me the only photographer they trusted to capture his legacy. That trust and belief in my art moved me deeply. As a dog lover and photographer, moments like these remind me why I do what I do.

These sessions are emotional. I’ve been in my clients’ shoes. I’ve loved and lost dogs that were like family to me. Whether they were working dogs or companions, each loss left a hole in my heart. When a family has exhausted every effort to improve their dog’s quality of life, spending thousands in the process, and they reach out for a photo session at the end of their journey, I can’t bring myself to turn them away just because money is tight.

Yes, there are clients who can afford a full-priced session, and I have no hesitation charging them appropriately. But I also trust my instincts. After a brief phone call, I can usually sense when a family is truly heartbroken over what’s to come. In those moments, I feel compelled to help, not for the sake of business but because I understand the depth of their pain.

There’s a quote that resonates with me whenever I think about the dogs I’ve loved and lost:

“It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life, gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.”

Chief’s owners sent me that quote painted on a wooden sign after our session, along with a tip equal to the cost of the session itself. They’ve gone out of their way to help spread the word about my work, and I now count them among my good friends. Chief is still fighting, and his story continues to inspire me.

As I work toward making dog photography my full-time career, I hope to one day achieve the balance so many photographers I admire have reached. I want to price my services sustainably while still offering discounted or free End-of-Life Sessions to those in need.

If I had stuck to a strict pricing policy, I might never have met Chief and his incredible family. And for that, I would have been much poorer—not financially, but in the experiences and connections that make this work so meaningful.

Chief - Dutch Shepherd from Ocala, Florida 

Taking your dogs to the beach

Taking your dog to the beach is an exciting adventure, but it's important to be prepared to ensure your furry friend has a safe and enjoyable time. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your beach day with your dog.

Bring Fresh Water

Always bring fresh water for your dog as well, a bowl or something your dog can drink out of easily at the beach.

One of the most common mistakes dog owners make when heading to the beach is forgetting to bring fresh water. Your dog will be more susceptible to the heat at the beach than at home, especially if they don't have access to clean, fresh water. The ocean water is salty and can dehydrate your dog QUICKLY, so always have a portable water bowl and plenty of fresh water on hand. Offer water frequently to keep your dog hydrated and cool. Sand ingestion is another common problem, especially small breeds - often seen at local vets near a beach. If they are digging and rooting around a lot, try to redirect them to play another way.

Choose the Right Fetch Toys

If your dog loves to play fetch, it's best to avoid using a tennis ball or any toy that can absorb water. Dogs often ingest salt water while retrieving these types of toys, even if they don't intend to. Swallowing salt water can lead to an upset stomach, dehydration, or even more serious health issues. Instead, opt for floating, non-absorbent toys that are specifically designed for water play.

This is a great toy that works for most size dogs that like to play in the water - Training Bumper - affiliate link

Be Aware of Rip Currents

If your dog enjoys swimming, it's crucial to be aware of rip currents. These strong, narrow currents can be just as dangerous to dogs as they are to humans, pulling them away from the shore. Keep a close eye on your dog while they're in the water, and avoid areas where rip currents are known to form. If you're unsure, stick to shallower areas where the water is calmer.

Respect Leash Laws

Leash laws vary depending on the beach, so it's important to know and follow the rules. Many beaches don’t allow any dogs. Even if the beach allows dogs off-leash, always be respectful of other beachgoers. Don’t allow your dog to approach other dogs without permission. Just because your dog is friendly doesn’t mean other dogs will be. Keeping your dog under control helps ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

Clean Up After Your Dog

Being a responsible dog owner means cleaning up after your dog. Always bring waste bags and dispose of them properly. Leaving waste behind not only spoils the beach experience for others but can also lead to water contamination and health hazards.

Protect Your Dog's Paws

Hot sand and pavement can burn your dog’s paws, leading to painful blisters or worse. Dog boots are a great idea to protect your dog’s feet from these hot surfaces. White sand may seem harmless, but it can get incredibly hot under the sun. Always check the temperature of the sand with your hand before letting your dog walk on it. The sand closer to the water is typically cooler, but boots are still recommended for the walk to and from the car, especially on pavement. We personally use these Frisco Boots for both of our dogs, nothing fancy - just to get to and from the beach areas.

With these tips in mind, you and your dog can enjoy a fun and safe day at the beach. Being prepared and aware of the unique challenges a beach environment presents will ensure that your beach day is a positive experience for both you and your furry friend. Happy beaching!

How I became a Dog Photographer

My passion for dogs has always been a part of who I am, but it wasn't until my career as a deputy in Taney and Phelps County that I discovered a unique way to blend that love with my interest in photography. During my time in Taney, I had the privilege of working closely with several K9 officers and Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. This experience gave me a deep appreciation for the incredible bond between K9s and their handlers, as well as the extraordinary skills these dogs bring to the table.

When I moved to Phelps County, I had the opportunity to work alongside a K9 deputy who was also a trainer. This experience was a game-changer for me. I got to meet K9s and handlers from all over the world, each with their own unique stories and training techniques. I spent several years photographing and documenting the progression of young K9s and their handlers, capturing the hard work, dedication, and love that goes into training these remarkable animals.

My camera became a tool not just for documentation, but for storytelling. Through my lens, I could capture the intensity of a K9 in training, the trust between handler and dog, and the small, everyday moments that highlight the deep connection they share. The work was challenging but deeply rewarding, and it further fueled my passion for both photography and dogs.

Today, that passion continues to grow. I have two incredible dogs of my own: Molly, a Lab mix who is a skilled game recovery dog, and Mishka, a Belgian Malinois I received from the very trainer I worked with. Mishka is trained in tracking, article search, and protection, and she embodies everything I admire about working dogs—loyalty, intelligence, and an unwavering drive to perform.

As I transition from law enforcement to full-time dog photography, I bring with me a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the canine-human bond. My goal is to capture the essence of dogs in all their forms—whether they are family pets, working dogs, or somewhere in between. Each photo is a tribute to the special role that dogs play in our lives, and I am excited to share this journey with others who share my love for these incredible animals.